Utsukushii Kare (2021)

Finally something new and refreshing. An ultimate favorite.

The definition of "not like the others" and healthily ""toxic"" (oddly they're way more healthy in their stuggles, weirdness and passion than most drama couples, especially the ones who are usually portrayed in BLs).

A+ storyline and main characters, A+ cinematography & OST (seriously the OST is THAT good).

Really clever and psychologically oriented, so well-crafted and written as this perfect circle which makes the rewatch of this show even more interesting, meaningful and endless cause you'll notice new things and details that you've probably 100% missed during your first watch.

Both characters are objectively kind of unlikable/flawed on the surface but you can't help but loving them and feel attached to them cause you get to understand them both individually AND together, and loving their both very pure and twisted unusual unconditional love they have for each other. The coming of age story of two lonely boys who are saving each other, and about the deconstruction of the idealization of love without removing the light sub/dom kink/relationship they have with each other despite themselves.

I often see people throwing around the word "soulmates" when it comes to their fave fictional couple, but I think that's really the case for those two whether you'll like them or not. They're so complimentary as if they were born for each other and I don't picture them functioning and be happy without each other also because they're both a lot to handle and difficult to reach to any other person.

A really good part one out of the three ones from the novel.

The only down is how short the episodes are and with only 6 of them which is a challenging format for such a complex relationship, but they've still managed to make it more effective and meaningful that some other shows who have 16 eps of 1hour/45 mins length each.

This show is so underrated and hated for no other reason than people not understanding the characters separately or together. Usually hated by tasteless people who will call it "dark", "disgusting", or "toxic" (which basically equals trashing and not respecting the LGBT kink community to me but that's another topic that could be extended here) while it's not, and they're the type of people who prefer boring BL trash with no depth and with all the non-con /r*pey tropes in it. Sad...

sidenote : the unreliable narrator trope is a weakness of mine so I really enjoyed finding it here, I'm not even talking about the switching of pov, it's more subtle than that (an exemple: the cherry blossom petals scene with the idealized version of Kiyoi through Hira's pov vs. the second time we're seeing it. i won't elaborate and i'll stop there otherwise it'll take two other paragraphs).

Lire davantage

More In-Depth than You'd Think

BASICALLY: 9/10
Honestly, I went into this with the idea that it would be a cute, simple, cliche story. I figured it'd have that "I'm bullied but the person who bullies me is sooooo cute~" mentality, and, while it may seem that way for a good portion, it turned out to be a really good story about first loves and our perception of people~

STORY (LOOSE SPOILERS; NOTHING MAJOR): 9/10
Like I said, I thought the plot would be more toxic than it was. Now, that's not saying it's mind-blowingly healthy, but it's realistic, and it really highlights how Hira's perception (and, subsequently, ours, as viewers watching it from his PoV) is a bit skewed from reality. The first couple of episodes are told strictly from Hira's perspective, so everything is what he knows, and he doesn't know a lot, as an awkward loner with no confidence. Kiyoi's perspective sheds more light on how wrong Hira is and how upsetting and -- quite frankly -- infuriating it can be to constantly be idolized to the point that you're barely human anymore. Both are wrong in their decisions -- make no mistake -- but they're supposed to be in high school, and who the hell knows anything about healthy in high school lol We make mistakes, and we try to fix them. Just like these two people do.

ACTING: 9.5/10
I've never heard of either of these actors, but I don't really follow Japanese shows as much as I follow Thai BLs and Korean Dramas, so don't take it too seriously~ The main actors, as well as MOST of the side actors, did wonderful jobs; I'm just jaded from Bad Buddy when it comes to acting, so my standards are (unfortunately) high at the moment~ While the main actors did a good job, I felt like some of the side characters that showed up here and there fell flat for me~ Not too bad, but enough for me to roll my eyes once or twice~

MUSIC: 8.5/10
It's not overly impressive, but there are a few songs I enjoyed~ Nothing too major or noteworthy, though~

REWATCH VALUE: 9/10
It's a short, cute story with some deeper themes than most, so I will definitely visit it again, especially with all of this snow~ Snuggle up and binge watch BLs? Sign me up, bitches~

OVERALL: 9/10
Are there longer dramas out there that I'd pick over this one? Yes. Of course. Japan isn't know for there drama productions, after all. Does that mean this isn't a nice show to watch? Of course not! It's cute. The actors are attractive, adorable, and kinda awkward, and the story is pretty good itself~ You should definitely check it out~

Lire davantage

My bittersweet memories

This is gonna get kinda personal, I'm letting you know upfront so you can decide if reading my review is worth your time.

When I first read Utsukushii Kare synopsis I didn't thought it was that special, but I decided to give it a try because I really liked the poster, they look so pretty surrounded by flowers. So you can imagine I was quite shocked to find myself relating so deeply with its characters and story.

Hira and I have a lot in common. I once met someone who I feel deeply in love with, but I was too young to understand or deal with my feelings properly, so I would just do everything the person I liked asked me to and try my best to make them happy. I saw myself as inferior to them, and thought I was so lucky to be allowed to walk by their side. Nobody was more important to me, nobody could compare, I was so enamoured I became blind. Now that I'm older, I know I was kinda stupid (but who isn't right). I also know loving like this can make you suffer. You can't put people on pedestals and turn them into Kings, they are just human, they are flawed, and seeing them as more than that will be painful for the both of you.

I am so happy and touched we got to see how Kiyoi felt about all this. I know many people can't understand him or connect with his character, but I wish we all could see that it's hard for him as well. He had his own problems to deal and then Hira showed up and even without meaning to, changed everything. One of the most important moments for me is when Kiyoi says to Hira "You will never understand my feelings". Yes, Hira cares a lot about Kiyoi, but he created a version of Kiyoi based on what he sees on the surface and doesn't let himself get closer, to really know Kiyoi as a person, because he's afraid and has a negative image of himself.

I think I saw someone say how Utsukushii Kare is a story about two people who struggle, each in your own way, with connecting with others and receiving/giving love, and I couldn't agree more. Kiyoi wishes to be an idol, to receive love and be adored, even recognizing that being famous can lead to a lonely life, because at least then he will be loved. But over the years he realizes what he really yearns for is human contact and the attention of one person in particular. Hira uses his camera to distance himself from everyone, he's socially awkward and prefers to keep to himself, believing that's the way the things are and there's nothing he can do to change it. Still he yearns for connection, so when a person so beautiful and interesting as Kiyoi enter his life, he can't resist. But he can't handle changes, and the possibility that Kiyoi and him could be something is too wild to even consider. When confronted, and after a lot of angst, he starts to change his way of thinking and finally the obstacles they created to keep the other apart are destroyed.

I don't know if the drama portrayed this part as well as it could. Speaking from experience - it's very difficult to overcome low self-esteem, and it can takes years to deconstruct the hierarchy you built in your mind. I think we will probably see more of this side if we get a season 2, I'm very curious about how Hira and Kiyoi's relationship would evolve. I also am not here to say that it's a "healthy portrait of a relationship", but most relationships in real life aren't, so I don't see the problem on someone wanting to tell a story about 2 complex men having a complex relationship. The "is this toxic or not" discussion doesn't lead anywhere, and it's getting boring to be honest. If you don't wanna see something that may cause you discomfort, stop watching. Your feelings are valid and you should take care of yourself, if Utsukushii Kare disturbs you that much, go watch something else.

I guess it's pretty clear I'm happy Utsukushii Kare exists. I saw myself in Hira, and I think many others will too. Knowing that there are people who understand how I feel makes me feel less alone. I understand just a little bit more how someone in Kiyoi's place would feel, and I learned how I was in a way not respecting the feelings and thoughts of someone I used to love. It's harder than it seems, to love and be loved. I just hope someone feels as comforted as I after finishing this drama.

Ps: if it's hard to understand something, sorry, English is not my native language.

Lire davantage

wow

basically every single shot in this drama is beautiful, the cinematography is off the charts and i’d honestly rewatch it just for that alone even if i didn’t love the story. i’ve seen mixed reviews but i loved the story between the main characters. it was just two equally messed up dudes that needed to work out their own issues that were preventing them from seeing what was in front of them. they really felt like real, authentic people to me and i fell in love with just how flawed they both were in totally different ways. i’ve rewatched this three times and i’ll be rewatching it at least a hundred more ha.

Lire davantage

It's a simple, beautiful love story

This is my first review writing, actually this series make me to write it. I'm really very happy to see this. It's actually make my stomach get butterflied. All the things in this series are in proper proportion or balance. Proper time duration, not too much extra ordinary drama, fabulous casting. This series name "My Beautiful Man" is worth it. I want every bl lover to watch this, ur time will gonna worth it. Really very delighted to get this kinda series in this year, it's like a gift to me.
Eagerly waiting for next season. Wanna to know, explore more chemistry between them.
#My Beautiful Man.... #HIRAKIYOI🖤

Lire davantage

This is just…beautiful

I’m completely obsessed with this drama. Both the main leads are so complicated and interesting, it had me rooting for their romance so much. I will admit I didn’t like Kiyoi in the beginning and I though this would be one of those bad bully x victim tropes. But it’s actually quite different from that. I don’t know how to put into words, but the actors’ chemistry is so electrifying. My heart was beating so fast everytime they were interacting especially the last episode in their old classroom where they kiss. The most beautiful and cutest BL scene ever… I also love Rokaku so much. He’s so precious and kindest boy ever. I’m glad Hira was able to find someone like him in college. I do wish Hira had more personality outside of being a socially awkward simp, but he’s still very cute to me and I was shocked to find out that he’s the seme and not Kiyoi lol. I really do want a season 2 since the novel hasn’t been translated into English. I hope we get one soon. Overall, I just love this drama, the actors, the storyline, their aesthetics, the kiss scene. Amazing.

Lire davantage

I’m telling y’all

I made an account on this website JUST so i could write a review for this drama.

I genuinely truly adore this one. I’m not too sure why. i know it starts out kinda strange and Kiyoi is quite mean to Hira. But trust me on this you guys, later on in the series it goes from Hiras’ POV to Kiyois’. And you truly understand him better. I wouldn’t change almost anything about this series besides the fact it could’ve been stretched out longer with longer episodes and more episodes. The series has a great amount of kisses, drama, and of course some gentle comedic relief. My point is; IF YOU’RE QUESTIONING WATCHING THIS SERIES GO WATCH IT. Now everyone’s opinions are different but always watch shows for yourself and form your own. That is all ♥️♥️

Lire davantage

A different kind of fluff: Complex and Psychological… Definitely not for everyone

It took me a while to finally write a review, and please keep in mind this is my first review ever.

Yes, I called this series a fluff, but it is a different kind of fluff. It is not your typical cute, sunshine, and rainbow story with a boy who visits a coffee shop and complains about his coffee because they got the wrong order. This is the type of fluff that have realistic and relatable characters. They make mistakes but they learn from it once they come to a realization.

The cinematography was amazing, the acting was amazing, and the adaptation did the best they could to adapt almost everything from the original novel. Although there wasn’t enough time and parts of Kiyoi’s perspective got cut off. It remained true to the novel until the very end.

It is sad that there are people out there that put unrealistic expectations on BL media by criticizing everything they feel is morally unacceptable but do not do the same with het romance or Disney movies. In the end, they just forget that the show is fiction and not based on realism, despite its relatable & realistic characters. If you’re easily triggered by bullying or tsundere behavior/characters just stay away from this show.

The music was pretty good, I like the ending song a lot. The opening song definitely grew on me after a few listens. Anyway, if you enjoy complex characters and don’t turn into a snowflake over a character willingly wanting to buy their crush a drink with money they gave them while being an ass bc the crush is a tsundere like that, then you can proceed.

Lire davantage

A must watch

One of the few good j-dramas I've watched and luckly is bl! I'm not going to lie, the relationship between the two character might seem toxic but I'm here to say it's not. The story is actually so complex that I feel like the episodes weren't long enough for all emotions to be encapsulated. The trope in itself is not very original, the bad boys/tsundere guy, but this author twisted it in such a way that the story is actually pretty unique. Even though the episodes are short I feel like I spent way more than I should've had because of the emotions it gave me. The first few episodes made me stop from one minute to another to laugh or to save myself from the second-hand embarrassement the characters gave me. I know it sounds weird but it was really enjoyable and fun because it made me actually feel something. But after my second rewatch I really started to observe and realise how intense and beautifully put together everything was. The actors' acting was actually good, they all are pretty good looking but I have to say... Yusei Yagi (Kiyoi Sou) is soooooo good looking, I can't even explain. As for the novel ( the original story) I don't know really know too much because you can't find an english translation. In conclusion, I think this drama is worth watching despite the controversial aspects of it because it's actually more complex than you'd think. Kiyoi is an introverted, insecure teenager who doesn't know how to express his emotions, and not only that but he is gay so this makes everything so much for confusing for him. You can't always have emotionally mature characters, so please try to pay more attention to Kyoi's actions and you'll realise he's not as toxic as you thought. I could rewatch this drama 10 times and still not get bored so I definitely recommend.

Lire davantage

A very attractive watch

Now I call it an attractive watch because of the twistedly acceptable elements of this show. I have watched multiple romantic plots with the main leads having all kinds of good, flawed, or likable personalities. This show is probably the first where I see both the leads have morally questionable characters, which evens out the dynamic and makes it quite acceptable since they aren't ruining anything (or anyone for that matter) with the way they are.

One can come out as innocent, stalkerish, and perverse, and the other can come out as a total bully and dominantly aggressive (especially with their words). Somehow, I don't find it as creepy, at least not as much as I found it different. I read a random comment that said, 'this story is about two broken boys coming together and learning how to communicate' and by the end of the last episode, that's precisely how I viewed it as well.

Now there are many out there who couldn't accept this show for what it was, and that's understandable. This isn't everyone's cup of tea. But if you are looking for something other than a norm to watch, this one is well worth trying.

Talking about the quality of the watch, I can't think of a better directed and better acted-out LGBT+ drama from Japan. The music was a bit too cheerful at times considering the theme of the show, but apart from that, it's pretty aesthetic to look at, and the script seems good too (the subtitles I was exposed to were very off, so I had to settle with those subs and my limited Japanese knowledge to rewrite the dialogues in my head). The show's pacing was great (for me), and like any fan of the show, I wish it were longer.

In conclusion, you might not want to miss this one out. It may or may not be to your liking, but that's for you to decide, and don't miss out on making that decision for yourself.

Lire davantage

Unexpected

❝ If we're still the same, then I don't want to...

It's exactly what it says on the tin. Utsukushii Kare is the story of Hira, a seventeen year old who is passionate about photography, that and the new student at his school, Kiyoi So, our titular “beautiful man.” The first half of the story is about how Hira keeps following Kiyoi around and in a way, submits to him. To be honest, I found his behaviour self-demeaning and the development of this “relationship” somewhat irksome.

And then episode 4 hits and wham! Viewers are suddenly hurtled into this whole new world. And this, I believe, is the shows winning point. Kiyoi’s point of view. All of a sudden there's no idol, there's no hero, no star–there's just a boy named Kiyoi with some broken dreams a sad heart and a yearning for something he isn't even sure of himself.

Utsukushii Kare isn't the story of how a weak boy fell for his bully, rather it brings out the complexity of these boys which pushes them apart and draws them together, each pulling at each other with a magnetism that is equally strong. There is an arrogance to them both; the difference is that while Kiyoi’s arrogance is obvious, Hira’s arrogance is imperceptible.

And maybe in a parallel “better” universe, Hira would fall for the “better” boy, his friend Koyama who accepts him freely. But what does "better" even mean? Difficult as it is to grasp, however obnoxious you may find it to be, better to Hira and Kiyoi is when they're together. The final episode hit the ball out of the park.

The actors bring their characters to life and perfectly delivered on the intense scenes. The shows is also filmed beautifully. To sum it up, Utsukushii Kare was unexpected.

Lire davantage